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Diwali's UNESCO Triumph: A Moment of Pride for India Amid Global Recognition

UNESCO has officially inscribed Diwali on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This decision was made during a week-long session held at Delhi's Red Fort, where 67 global nominations were reviewed. Leaders from across India's political spectrum, including the BJP, Shiv Sena, and Congress, have unanimously applauded the move. They see it as a significant moment of national pride that showcases India's rich cultural heritage to the world.

Key Points: Diwali Inscribed on UNESCO Heritage List Draws Cross-Party Applause

  • UNESCO examined 67 nominations from nearly 80 countries during its key session in Delhi
  • The recognition is seen as strengthening India's cultural presence on the global stage
  • Political leaders from BJP, Shiv Sena, and Congress all welcomed the development
  • The inclusion follows other Indian traditions like Kumbh Mela and Yoga on the UNESCO list
2 min read

'Moment of pride', UNESCO's inscription of Diwali draws cross-party applause

Leaders across political parties welcome UNESCO's recognition of Diwali as intangible cultural heritage, calling it a commendable step and a moment of national pride.

"Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's cultural heritage has received global recognition. - Danish Azad Ansari, Uttar Pradesh Minister"

New Delhi, Dec 10

Leaders across party lines on Wednesday welcomed the inclusion of Diwali -- one of India's foremost cultural and spiritual festivals -- in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, calling it a "commendable" step and a moment of pride for the country.

A total of 67 nominations submitted by nearly 80 countries, including India's Diwali, were examined during the week-long key session of UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which began at Delhi's Red Fort on Monday.

Uttar Pradesh Minister Danish Azad Ansari termed the move "very commendable".

Speaking to IANS, Ansari said, "Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's cultural heritage has received global recognition. This goodwill reflects how our cultural heritage is a strong pillar of the nation, and under Prime Minister Modi's guidance, it has been firmly showcased to the world. For this reason, India is now emerging globally as a country with positive leadership and as a driver of progressive growth."

Shiv Sena leader Manisha Kayande also welcomed the development and told IANS, "This is a good thing and is welcome because Diwali is a very important festival in India, and it has been included in UNESCO's list. We feel very proud of this."

Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai, speaking to IANS, said, "Our festival should be celebrated across the world. Every Indian would want Diwali to be celebrated everywhere across the globe."

VHP National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal also welcomed the move and said that the inclusion would further strengthen India's cultural presence on the global stage.

Speaking to IANS, Bansal said, "After festivals like Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja, Garba and Yoga, now our Diwali also holds great significance. Diwali has been included in UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage. For this, the Prime Minister of India has congratulated and appreciated the central government. This recognition will have multiple benefits, including the inclusion of Diwali in UNESCO's list, which will strengthen India's cultural presence globally, promote research on Diwali and increase awareness about it."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who has celebrated Diwali with Indian friends, I'm so happy to see this. It's a beautiful festival with such deep meaning. This recognition will help more people around the world understand and appreciate its significance.
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Priya S
While I'm happy about the recognition, I wish the article focused more on the festival's universal message of light over darkness, rather than turning it into a political achievement. The spirit of Diwali belongs to every Indian, regardless of party.
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Vikram M
Jai Shri Ram! A truly proud moment for Bharat. Our culture and traditions are finally getting the global platform they deserve. From Yoga to Diwali, the world is embracing Indian wisdom. Kudos to all involved.
R
Rohit P
Good step by UNESCO. Now maybe we can also focus on preserving the *real* essence of Diwali back home – less noise pollution from crackers, more emphasis on cleaning, diyas, sweets, and family time. Let's practice what we preach globally.
K
Kavya N
Feeling so emotional reading this! My Nani used to tell us stories about Diwali. It's heartwarming to know our traditions are being documented and celebrated worldwide. This is for our ancestors and for our future generations. ❤️

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